In a bold escalation of the US-Israel-Iran war, Israeli fighter jets have unleashed a barrage of airstrikes targeting Iran’s critical oil infrastructure, setting dozens of fuel depots ablaze and plunging parts of Tehran into chaos. The attacks, which occurred over the weekend of March 7-8, 2026, mark the first time energy facilities have been directly hit in the conflict, sparking mᴀssive fires visible from miles away and raising global concerns over oil supply disruptions. Thick black smoke has blanketed the Iranian capital, with reports of toxic rain falling on streets due to burning oil residues, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that over 80 fighter jets participated in the operation, striking key sites including the Tondgouyan Oil Refinery in Shahr Rey, the Shahran Oil Refinery in Tehran, oil storage facilities in Karaj, Alborz Province, and additional depots in Tehran City. These facilities, allegedly linked to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and used to fuel military operations, were described by the IDF as legitimate targets supporting Iran’s war machine. Iranian state media reported at least four deaths from the strikes, with fires raging at locations such as the Aghdasieh oil warehouse, Tehran refinery, Shahran oil depot, and a depot in Karaj.
The strikes have drawn sharp reactions from the US, with sources indicating dismay over the scale, which exceeded pre-notified expectations and could complicate allied coordination. President Trump, however, reiterated that the US has decimated much of Iran’s military capabilities, stating that remaining targets “could be taken out in an hour.” As of March 12, 2026, the war has entered its 13th day, with disruptions to Iran’s energy sector likely to worsen ongoing electricity shortages and fuel crises.
In retaliation, Iran launched ballistic missiles at Israel’s Haifa refinery, causing damage and injuries, while IRGC proxies intensified attacks on US bases in the region. Newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei vowed a “prolonged war,” as Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected calls for surrender. Social media footage shows gas pipes exploding on Tehran’s Shahran Boulevard, with flames ripping through streets and residents fleeing amid the inferno.
Global oil prices have surged amid fears of supply shortages, with OPEC+ increasing production to mitigate impacts. Casualties continue to mount, with over 1,300 reported ᴅᴇᴀᴅ in Iran, mostly civilians, and widespread blackouts plaguing the country. Intelligence reports suggest potential further strikes on Iran’s Kharg Island export terminal, which handles 90% of the country’s crude oil.
As the conflict spills into economic warfare, diplomatic efforts remain stalled, with regional powers like France deploying ships and Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions flaring. The strikes on oil infrastructure underscore the asymmetric toll, threatening to ignite a broader Middle East crisis.
